AFP’s recommendation on martial law in Marawi City expected this week

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will submit its recommendation about whether the martial law should be lifted or not in Marawi City to President Rodrigo Duterte this week, according to The Manila Times Online on Tuesday (Dec 5).

Malacanang spokesman Harry Roque said Monday that the military knew what was going on in Marawi City and should be allowed to make the decision whether martial law should not lifted or extended.

“The AFP is mindful of the extension of martial law implementation ends on 31 December 2017. It is currently in the process of assessment and deliberation as to the recommendation,” Roque told a press conference.

Congress overwhelmingly voted to extend martial law in Mindanao until next year-end after the proclamation reached its 60-day constitutional limit in July, giving the military more time to stabilize the strife-torn region.

Roque, on Saturday, hinted at another extension of martial law in Mindanao, saying such an environment was needed for the recovery of Marawi City.

“Can you imagine if (there is no martial law while rehabilitation efforts are ongoing)? Well anyway, I do not want to pre-empt the recommendation of the armed forces and I do not want to pre-empt any decision made by the government, “ said Roque.

He hinted that President Duterte might announce his decision concerning martial law before Congress goes on recess on Dec 15.

If Duterte decides to extend the martial law, the Senate and the House will hold a special joint session to discuss and vote on the president’s proposal.